RECENT convictions for two rape cases have highlighted the plight of women, and the Pinetown police is urging them to always be vigilant, especially when out on a night of fun.

One such fateful night of drinking at a tavern in the Msunduzi area turned into a nightmare for two local women who were held at gunpoint by the now convicted man, with one of them brutally assaulted and raped, while the other managed to escape.

The escapee drew the attention of locals who alerted the police. Through the help of community members the suspect was traced and arrested by the police.

Earlier this year he was sentenced to 15 years behind bars for rape, with an additional 15 years for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The sentences will run concurrently.

 In another incident a 19-yearold man from KwaDabeka was recently sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for the statutory rape of a 16-year-old girl.

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The girl’s parents reported the incident to the police after their child fell pregnant and told them she had been in a relationship with the convicted 19-year-old.

The Pinetown SAPS officer who investigated both cases, Warrant Officer Ethel Ndlovu, applauded the parents for coming forward and the Msunduzi community members for assisting with bringing the suspect to book.

Commenting on the prevalence of such cases locally, Ndlovu said “it is very bad” and urged women to always be vigilant, and cautious, especially when planning to go out for a night of fun.

Ndlovu is set to receive a certificate of recognition from the eThekwini SAPS district commissioner for her investigative work which led to the convictions.

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